City Announces More Than $20 Million in Summer Programming for Columbus Youth
Columbus Mayor Andrew J.
Ginther today announced $20.1 million in city funding for summer programming
for Columbus youth. Programs receiving financial support are primarily focused
on violence prevention, jobs training and employment opportunities, and
academic enrichment, all of which are designed to provide safe, constructive venues
for youth to learn, grow and develop during the summer months.
“The
pandemic is finally behind us, but its fallout continues to impact society – particularly
our young people, who were disproportionately affected,” said Mayor Ginther. “We
have a special obligation to continue making restorative investments in their
health and well-being to ensure they have the skills, knowledge and experiences
they need to succeed, both now and in the future.”
Of the $20.1
million in funding, $8.9 million is being awarded to more than 90 community organizations
that submitted funding requests as part of an open, competitive application
process held in April. Funding proposals were then evaluated by an
interdepartmental review committee comprised of representatives from both the
administration and Columbus City Council, which ultimately devised the recommended
allocations announced today.
Ordinances authorizing the
$8.9 million in city funding will be considered by Columbus City Council at the
May 22 meeting.
These
investments will join an additional $11.2 million that has already been approved
for a number of city-sponsored summer programs, including the Teen and Police
Service (TAPS) Academy, ReRoute, summer internships and ongoing partnerships
with several community organizations.
“We are
proud to invest in our community partners that are so vital to the success of
our kids and teens,” said Council President Shannon Hardin. “This funding will
give Columbus kids a wide range of opportunities to learn, grow, and work in
their neighborhoods.”
A list of organizations
receiving funds, along with contact information, is available at http://www.columbus.gov/2023summerfunding.